True Marine Starter

[JZammetti]

Hello All,
First off let me say this is a tough start-up season, I've spent $140 on tires, $229.00 on a battery and now need a starter installed that will cost me $389.00 installed. (I know, do I want some cheese with my whine.) Now that I am done my question is simple, I've read countless posts (and heated opinions) about using electrical components that are stamped "Marine" VS "Automotive" application, how do I know that my new starter (installed by a licensed and insured) boat mechanic is truly marine grade? For $389.00 for parts and labor is reasonable, I've seen re-man'd marine starters (MERC 3.0) on-line for $279 to $389 dollars. I don't mind spending the money, I just want to be sure when my family is on the water we are safe.

Thanks, and wait for me, I'll be on the water soooooooon.

 

[JZammetti]

Re: True Marine Starter

Would my boat mechanic do the rebuild or do I need to send it out and have him re-install it? Thank you for the tip.

 

[NHGuy]

Re: True Marine Starter

That price sounds OK. Your boat is kind of young to need a starter though.
Sometimes things just break & wear out.
Part of your issue, (needed a battery, now a starter)...is to check the alternator and the remainder of the electrical system to assure there are no other issues. A poor battery can be caused by charging & discharging issues. This could have damaged your starter, and in some circumstances the starter can damage the flywheel during these times.
So to put it simply, get the tech to assure your electrics are good when the starter is in & the engine is restarted. He can be expected to start the motor a number of times to check the flywheel issue. Electrical testing is done with a gauges and testers.

 

[capt sam]

Re: True Marine Starter

that's a pretty pricey marine battery, even Optima's aren't that high. Are you sure your starter is bad, often it's cables or connections.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: True Marine Starter

So..... you are having the work "done" and not venturing down the DIY road? Investment into a service manual (actually we have them here free to download) and try the DIY route.

The starter which has "extra" shielding, screening and marine "stuff" is really no different then an automotive starter. I have all my marine parts rebuilt locally and FAR cheaper then anywhere else.

The true money is being spent with the marine tech..... wow 229 for a battery is a bit steep since it is actually the same battery as a car. The best value you have from using a marine tech is the safety factor for you and the family if you are not comfortable in the DIY arena.

 

[JZammetti]

Re: True Marine Starter

So..... you are having the work "done" and not venturing down the DIY road? Investment into a service manual (actually we have them here free to download) and try the DIY route.

Put it to you this way Bob,
Emergency Room Visit Co-Pay $175.00, 3 Days out of work = 3 lost sick days that could be used on the water. LOL, Seriously, I SUCK mechanically, and I know by time I get done cursing and ripping flesh it is cheaper to pay someone. It's bad enough (I am man enough to admit it) I had scamatics from my owners manual and the boat tech still told me I had the cables on wrong. "You Honor, the pathetic rests"

 

[fat fanny]

Re: True Marine Starter

JZ I commend you on at least admitting your short commings in the mechanical field but please find somewhere to get at least a fair price on a battery even if it's installed heck even Auto zone can sell you a marine battery for under 150.00 and that's installed. But like you said it's piece of mind SAFETY!

 

[JZammetti]

Re: True Marine Starter

Umm, so you married a woman that knows how to bend a wrench,,, right?

I don't know about bending a wrench, however, she can break my butt...LOL
Seriously, my wife is less mechanical then me, we keep skilled labor in business.